Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Feta Filling

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Feta Filling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapeños; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Feta Filling for gatherings. The combination of tangy feta and creamy spinach makes every bite delicious, while the kick from jalapeños adds an exciting dimension. I enjoy experimenting with the ingredients to find the perfect balance. These poppers are not only easy to make but are guaranteed crowd-pleasers. Whether served as an appetizer or a fun snack, they always disappear in minutes, leaving everyone wanting more!

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:31:09.834Z

Trying out Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Feta Filling was a fun culinary adventure. I began by roasting the jalapeños to enhance their natural flavor. I then combined fresh spinach and crumbled feta, creating a mixture that was both creamy and tangy. The rich feta pairs perfectly with the spice of the jalapeños. I found that pre-baking the poppers gives them a delightful crunch, elevating the overall experience.

When serving these poppers, I recommend adding a side of cool ranch dip. It not only enhances the flavor but also balances out the heat from the jalapeños. I've experimented with adding different herbs like dill and parsley, which add unique flavors and freshness. Each time I make these, they've turned into a reliable favorite that gets everyone talking!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Creamy feta and spinach filling that's bursting with flavor
Perfectly balanced spice from fresh jalapeños
Great as a party snack or as an appetizer for dinner
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings

      

Perfecting Your Jalapeño Poppers

When preparing your jalapeños, choose firm and vibrant ones. This not only ensures that they taste fresher but also holds up better during baking. If you're worried about the heat level, opt for milder jalapeños. You can soak them in a vinegar solution for about 30 minutes before baking, as this can help mellow their spice. Alternatively, feel free to use bell peppers for a completely heat-free version—just be sure to adjust cooking times, as they will bake quicker than jalapeños.

Getting the filling just right is key to flavorful poppers. The combination of feta and cream cheese creates a rich texture while the spinach adds a healthy touch. Be sure to chop the spinach finely to distribute the flavor evenly. If you're looking for a twist, consider adding diced sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives for an added depth of flavor. Mixing in a bit of lemon zest can also enhance the freshness of the filling.

Baking the poppers at 375°F allows them to cook evenly and develop a golden top while maintaining their shape. Keep an eye on them during the last 5 minutes of baking to ensure they achieve that perfect golden-brown color without burning. If you want a crispier texture, you can broil them for 2-3 minutes at the end, but make sure to watch them closely to avoid burning.

Serving and Storing

These Jalapeno Poppers can be a hit at parties, but they also make an excellent addition to meal prep. Once cooled, they can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes helps retain their cheesy goodness. Alternatively, for more immediate consumption, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, but keep in mind that the texture may not be as crispy.

For a delightful presentation, consider serving the poppers with a dipping sauce. A sour cream-based dip, perhaps with a hint of lime or cilantro, complements their flavors beautifully. Additionally, try pairing them with a spicy salsa or a tangy yogurt sauce drizzled over the top. This can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the poppers, enhancing the overall flavor profile and presentation.

If you're interested in making these poppers in advance, simply prepare the jalapeños and the filling, stuff them, and then freeze them before baking. They can be stored in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transferred to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake directly from the freezer, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to your bake time.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your jalapeno poppers:

Ingredients

12 large jalapeños
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to keep the jalapeños intact while removing the seeds for the best outcome.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make delicious jalapeno poppers:

Prepare the Jalapeños

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well blended.

Stuff the Jalapeños

Spoon the filling into each jalapeño half, generously packing it in.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes or until they are golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers with Spinach Feta Filling!

For a crispy topping, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking!

Pro Tips

For a milder flavor, opt for smaller jalapeños and remove more seeds. You can also experiment with different cheeses based on your preference.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making jalapeño poppers is that the filling may spill out while baking. To avoid this, ensure that you pack the filling tightly into each jalapeño half without overstuffing them. If you notice that the filling is not sticking well or seems too loose, consider adding a bit more cream cheese to help it bind together. A well-mixed filling will maintain its shape better during cooking.

In some cases, jalapeños can be spicier than expected. If you or your guests prefer less heat, try using the milder parts of the jalapeño. When cleaning them, make sure to remove all seeds and membranes, as those contain most of the spice. Additionally, serving them with cooling dips like ranch or sour cream can help balance any unexpected heat.

If you're not a fan of feta cheese, you can substitute it with goat cheese or even a mild cheddar. These alternatives provide distinct flavors but still create a creamy filling that complements the jalapeños. Just keep in mind that each cheese will alter the taste slightly, so choose one that excites your palate.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

For those who enjoy varied flavors, try infusing the cream cheese with spices such as smoked paprika, cumin, or even a hint of cayenne pepper. These spices can elevate your filling and introduce a new flavor dimension that pairs beautifully with the fresh jalapeños and cheese. If you're adventurous, try adding chopped bacon or crumbled sausage into the filling for a meaty twist.

Another variation to consider is enhancing the overall texture of the poppers. After stuffing the jalapeños, you might roll them in breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips before baking, which adds a satisfying crunch. This crispy exterior contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling inside, making each bite even more delightful and appealing.

If you’re looking for a healthier twist, substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. This will provide a similar creaminess with lower fat content. You can also sneak in additional vegetables like finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms into the mix to augment flavor and nutrition without sacrificing deliciousness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these poppers in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed jalapeños a few hours ahead and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake.

→ How can I make these poppers spicier?

To increase the heat, leave some seeds in the jalapeños or add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the cream cheese filling.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar or pepper jack cheese can also work well for a different flavor profile.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They can be reheated in the oven for best results.